Prehistoric People and the Ocean

To the prehistoric people of Taiwan, the ocean provided plenty of food and a boundless path. Foods gathered from the sea were mainly fish and shells, including large fish such as sharks and sailfish. Besides used for food, the bones and shells were used as materials for tools, such as shell spoons scrapers, as well as for decorations. The fact demonstrates the favorable utilization of resources from the ocean by prehistoric people.

Although there is no evidence on the navigation skills of the prehistoric people, it is believed that they knew how to master the ocean currents and seasonal winds for sailing, and observe stars for orientation. In addition, it is quite possible that they possessed excellent diving skills, and good knowledge on sea ecology, the habitual behaviors of fish, and tides.

Hengchun Peninsula is set to be the scene of this exhibition room to demonstrate how the utilization of the ocean resources by the prehistoric people and evidences of trade taken place on the sea.